Neuronavigated high-frequency repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation for chronic post-stroke dysphagia: A randomized controlled study
Ivy K.Y. Cheng, Karen M.K. Chan, Chun-sing Wong, Leonard S.W. Li, Karen M.Y. Chiu, Raymond T.F. Cheung, Edwin M.L. Yiu
Division of Speech and Hearing Sciences, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong
DOI: 10.2340/16501977-2235
Lay Abstract
When stroke damages brain regions that are related to the control of swallowing, survivors may experience long-term swallowing difficulties after stroke. We studied if the post-stroke survivors’ swallowing functions can be improved by using external electromagnetic stimulation on the brain. 15 stroke patients who had swallowing difficulties for more than one year participated in the study. We performed brain stimulation treatment on 11 patients and sham stimulation (placebo treatment) on 4 patients. The results showed that both groups of patients did not change in swallowing functions over the 12-month follow-up period. This study does not support the use of the examined stimulation protocol as treatment for long-term swallowing difficulties after stroke. Future studies are needed to determine the optimal use of brain stimulation to improve swallowing functions for stroke patients.
Supplementary content
